What is the difference between milling and routing

While routers are mostly used for softer materials, mills are generally used to cut metals and tougher materials. It uses rotary cutting tools similar to those of a router, but the operating speeds are much slower with mills. Instead of using a stationary table, many CNC mills move in an X-Y configuration, with the spindle moving on a linear axis above the workpiece. This provides increased clearance along the Z axis and allows mills to perform thicker cuts, as mills make cuts using torque rather than rotational speed.

There are a number of key differences between CNC routers and CNC mills that will help determine which is best for your shop. From materials, speed, axes, cutting area or depth and more aspects, follow us CNClathing. CNC mill is a type of common computer numerically controlled machine for meeting varying manufacturing needs.

CNC mills or milling machines are used to perform milling process, utilizes a rotating cylindrical cutting tool that can move along multiple axes to cut the workpiece and produce various features like slots, holes, shapes and more, while the workpiece moves across the milling cutter in a specific direction.

CNC mills can machine almost all of the materials, including metal, wood, ceramic, plastic, etc. The selection of CNC milling materials should be considered according to the characteristics of the material, such as hardness, machinability, density, and strength; as well as the applications.

The shape of the flute, or the direction the spiral goes, will also influence your machining. A flute influences aspects like your chip load, feed rate and surface finish. Using the correct end mill for your project can make a big difference in how it turns out. These versatile machines can get a lot done, but you have to use the right one. Some of the key differences between CNC milling and a router are as follows:. In both cases, you get the benefit of a computer-controlled device.

By using CAD software, you eliminate human error from the physical cutting process. You can recreate the same piece over and over again. Or, if you only need one part, you know that it will be made exactly to the specifications you put in.

Measurements are accurate, and cuts are sharp and defined. CAD software requires skilled workers to execute the designs in an efficient and effective way. For either machine, the process is typically loud and dirty. Unless you have an enclosed router or mill and an installed vacuuming system, the dust from the device will end up all over the shop and potentially cause health and safety problems.

Though the machines are relatively simple to use, the operator needs to use standard best practices and wear the appropriate personal protective equipment as is necessary to prevent noise or respiratory issues. A skilled operator should also know the signs of a project that is having problems.

If the piece starts burning or shaking or the tip jumps, there may be an issue with the design or the equipment. Both machines can create consistent results that often cannot be performed by hand. Whether you need to make parts for a wooden chair or a gear for an aircraft, CNC machines can get it done.

For cutting-edge custom machining, American Micro Industries creates custom-built parts for a wide variety of industries. Many companies in these fields and others turn to AMI for more than just a part. They turn to us for unbeatable customer service. We will work with you to develop the part you need. From material selection to the manufacturing process, we can help you find the right approach for even the most unique applications. While a mill can cut wood and plastics, the work envelope is limited in comparison to a router.

A smaller work envelope means that there is more mass in a smaller space, which allows a mill to be more rigid than a router. This smaller envelope and rigidity also allows for more accurate parts. Mills usually have spindles that are lower speed, but higher torque, than a router. Because of their larger - often gantry-style - format, routers are often less rigid than their mill counterparts.

This also means they leverage higher speed spindles, with speeds between 10, - 24, RPM sometimes even higher.